Mrs. Harjo and Tony's Developmental Stages
Mrs. Harjo is presented as a 65-year-old woman and, therefore, she falls on the stage of Ego Integrity vs. Despair. Being in this stage of life an individual mainly contemplates on the accomplishments in their life and what they indicate. Additionally, integrity in this stage of life is achieved when an individual feels that they have lived a successful life. Tony, on the other hand, presents as a 13-year-old boy who falls under the developmental stage of identity vs. confusion. Tony's desire at this age is to find a place in the world where he can fit into. At some point, he feels unhappy about his characteristics in line with the nature of the environment where he lives.
Ethical Concerns for Mrs. Harjo and Tony
Several ethical concerns arise in the lives of the clients depending on the psychosocial stages. Mrs. Harjo may experience ethical issues in giving informed consent and confidentiality. However, it is important that they are allowed to make informed decisions concerning their lives, especially in clinical and research situations. On the other hand, for Tony, the major ethical consideration is autonomy. The healthcare provider needs to make a decision on issues that should be kept confidential while dealing with the patient and what to disclose.
Social Work Programs for Mrs. Harjo and Tony
There are different social work programs that could help deal with the situations that surround the clients from the case study. These social programs include Medicaid and education programs. Access to healthcare is important for the elderly client so as to sustain them in good physiological and psychological health. Conversely, Tony should be considered in getting the right education to help him deal with the situation that leads to his low performance in school. Medicare is also essential for him, as he lives with the elderly and the low income they get may not sustain their well-being.
Societal Expectations and Attitudes towards Mrs. Harjo and Tony
For the adolescent years such as Tony's, the society expects that they become responsible as they develop into adulthood. Consequently, the society looks at them as an energetic group that should make positive change and become better leaders. Also, the attitudes towards the elderly vary with regard to the society, though they are mostly held in high esteem and regarded as a source of wisdom. In this way, the society feels a sense of responsibility towards them.
Role of Social Workers in Supporting Mrs. Harjo and Tony
Social workers are involved in motivating the adolescents through involving them in developing programs that help meet their personal and social needs. They need to promote their emotional, mental, and social well-being. They should be provided with opportunities to develop and show their potential. More so, they have a duty in protecting the elderly through support to the caregivers. Being in the Ego integrity vs despair stage, they need to feel that their financial and emotional issues are solved to enhance aging gracefully. Also, the social worker would provide education and support to the patient to help cope with the existing situations.
Society's Policies and Programs for Mrs. Harjo and Tony
In dealing with the situation of both clients, I am concerned about the policies and programs that have been put in place within the society to help them live comfortably in the society.
